A commentary of M. I. Calvin upon the Epistle to the GalatiansA commentarie of M. I. Caluine vpon the Epistle to the Galathians

25 But when faith cometh.) What the coming of faith is, I have already showed: namely a more clear revealing of grace, after the veil of the temple is rent in two, Math. 27.51. which we know was done when Christ was exhibited. Therefore he affirmeth that child's age, which is to be governed by a schoolmaster, is not any more, under the kingdom of Christ: and therefore that the Law hath made an end of his office.¹ and this is the other application of the similitude. For he toke upon him to prove these two things, that the Law was a preparation unto Christ, and that it was but for a season. But here again a question is demanded, whether the Law be so abrogated or done away, that it belongeth nothing to us. I answer, The Law, as far forth as it is the rule of good living, and a Bridle wherewith we are held back in the fear of the Lord, and a prick to amend. the sluggishness of our flesh: to conclude, as far forth as it is profitable to teach, to correct, to reprove, that the Faithful may be instructed to every good work, is of no less force at this day, than in time paste, and so to remain without touch. And how is it than done away? I have already said, that Paul considereth the Law with the qualities thereof wherewith it is covered. and these are the qualities thereof, it appointeth reward unto works, and punishment also: that is to say it promiseth life to the worshippers thereof, it curseth all transgressors: in the mean while it requireth of a man very high perfection, and exquisite obedience: it forgetteth nothing, it pardoneth nothing, but calleth all even very small faults to account: it showeth not Christ and his grace openly, but it showeth him a far off, and that shut up under Ceremonies, as under Covers. Such qualities, I say, doth Paul teach to be abolished, so that already the ministry of Moses is ceased, so far forth as it differeth in outward show from the free covenant.

25 But when faith commeth.) What the cōming of faith is, I haue alredie shewed: namely a more cleare reuealing of grace, after the vaile of the temple is rent in two, Math. 27.51. which we knowe was done when Christ was exhibited. Therefore he affirmeth that childes age, which is to be gouerned by a scholmaister, is not any more, vnder the kingdome of Christ: and therfore that the Lawe hath made an ende of his office.